PITTSBURGH—The Houston Texans may tell the Pittsburgh Steelers exactly how old they’re getting.

The Steelers’ still-blitzing, still-talented defense was statistically the NFL’s best last season, ranking third against the run and the pass, and first overall. The problem was the Steelers’ defense really wasn’t the Steelers’ defense past the midpoint of the season.

Defensive end Aaron Smith and safety Ryan Clark were hurt and safety Troy Polamalu never was himself due to multiple injuries—he didn’t have a sack or an interception. That No. 1 defense allowed an average of 29...

Log-In to view full story or view our Registration Guide.